Read Time: 5 min
Stress is just a part of life, but it shouldn't overtake your life. Life is fast-paced, but every so often, it is essential to stop and breathe. If you are struggling to control the stress in your life, then this is the blog for you. We have compiled the top 8 ways to reduce stress.
8 Ways to Reduce Stress:
Spend time with people who make you happy:
Spending time with your family and friends can have a significant impact on your stress levels. Laughing with friends is one of the best stress relievers. Yes, sometimes you want to be alone but make sure you are not isolating yourself. Reaching out to friends or family for support during tough times is essential.
Exercise:
Exercising is not only beneficial for your physical well being but also your mental health. It can help you relieve stress letting your anger and frustration off through stuff like kickboxing, jogging, or weight lifting. Moreover, it produces hormones that reduce stress and improves your mood. Swimming can prove to be an effective full-body workout and a great way to relax. Start with just a simple walk outside to get you moving.
Pen down your feelings:
You may struggle to acknowledge and embrace your emotions at the moment. Stress and depression can overwhelm a person and detach you from reality. By writing down your feelings and thoughts, you may start to process some of those feelings. Even just writing down your thoughts can give you a feeling of peace.
Meditate:
Mediation is one of the best ways to relax and let go of stress. All you need is a quiet space and 10 minutes. Close your eyes and relax your body, let your mind slowly let go of everything and think of nothing, focus on your breathing. There isn't a wrong or right way to meditate; if you feel calmer afterwards, then it has worked. If you find sitting in silence strange, there are a variety of apps and youtube videos that walk you through meditation.
Recommendations
Youtube: Music, nature sounds, Guided Meditation
Apps: Headspace, Calm, 10% happier
Cut down alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine intake
When we are stressed, it is common to seek comfort through coffee, alcohol and/or nicotine. Relying on these for stress relief can create dependence. Therefore, it is suggested not to resort to such means to get rid of your stress. Instead, adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle which promotes your health is the best option. Water and herbal teas will keep your body hydrated and healthy so you can power on through the day. Make sure you are drinking at least 2 litres of water to ensure you are staying hydrating.
Get proper sleep
Sleep deprivation is a significant factor contributing to stress. On the other hand, stress is also a reason for sleep disruption, a bit of a paradox. Relaxing before sleep can help get your mind ready for sleep. Removing study and work documents can help keep the atmosphere of your room as only a place for sleeping. Avoid looking at screens for 2 hours before bed and try to stay away from caffeine and excessive alcohol. Engage in peaceful activities before bed such as taking a warm bath or shower, reading a book, meditating etc.
Practice time management:
Deadlines can create a lot of stress. You want to avoid leaving things to the last minute, especially if you know that you are prone to anxiety. Give yourself plenty of time to complete a task for that. You should make a planner and prioritise your list of work according to its urgency and significance. Furthermore, try to avoid procrastination as it only delays your thought process and flow of work. Once, you follow a routine and plan; you should feel more in control of your life.
Rest if you are under the weather:
Responsibilities and goals aside, your health and well being is also essential. You can only accomplish your targets if you have the mental and physical strength to put in the hard work for it. It’s necessary if you take a day off when you are sick rather than overexerting yourself. It will not only reduce stress but reduce the delay of your recovery process. Don't feel bad about taking a day to rest if you think you need it for your mental health, giving yourself time off can help you recenter.
Photo by Angelina Kichukova on Unsplash